2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Nissan Terrano II
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Terrano II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Terrano II would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Terrano II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Terrano II (116 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Terrano II should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Terrano II weights approximately 281 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Nissan Terrano II is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Terrano II will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Nissan Terrano II (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Terrano II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1996 Nissan Terrano II | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Terrano II |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
